Are all faucet aerators removable?

Most are, but some may not be. Check the manual or company website if you are having issues removing your aerator from your home faucets.

How much does a low-flow faucet aerator cost?

Most typically cost between $5 and $10, with more expensive ones costing $30 or less. Some aerators can cost up to $250, but those are not as common.

Are kitchen faucet aerators universal?

No, not all kitchen faucet aerators are universal. Check the product description or company site to confirm if you are unsure.

How To Remove A Faucet Aerator: (Steps For Delta, Moen, Kohler)

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An unsung hero of your home, the faucet aerator ensures that you get great water flow without any big bills. This article will teach you how to remove a faucet aerator for easy cleaning and replacement in the future.

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What is a Faucet Aerator? (& Benefits of Using One)

A faucet aerator is a mesh at the opening of your faucet. It adds air into your water to do the following:

Prevent Splashing
Adding air to your water reduces how high the water splashes to prevent a watery disaster.
Increases perceived water pressure
Adding air into your water controls your water level without sacrificing your actual water pressure.
Uses less water
The extra air in your water flow means that you do not use as much water, saving you water and money on bills.
Shapes your faucet water stream
The mesh insert forces your water to become multiple small streams rather than one large one, controlling the water’s flow’s splash and noise level.

How To Remove a Faucet Aerator (Step-by-Step)

Removing a faucet aerator may be slightly different depending on the brand. Suppose these steps do not work for you. In that case, we recommend consulting the brand’s website, faucet manual, or customer service team before removing the aerator.

Plier
Cloth
Penetrating oil
Electrical tape
Vinegar (white preferred)
Rubber wrench
Plastic baggy
Rubber band

How to Remove a Delta Faucet Aerator

Here’s how to remove an aerator from Delta faucet:

1
Place a stopper over the drain to prevent pieces from going down the drain
2
Line up the delta aerator tool (if necessary) with the notches
3
Twist counterclockwise with your hands, the aerator tool, or a quarter

Suppose you need to replace your entire faucet due to aerator corrosion or damage. In that case, you can find some excellent options for your next upgrade.

How to Remove a Moen Faucet Aerator

Here’s how to remove an aerator from Moen faucets:

1
Unthread counterclockwise and remove

If the aerator is concealed, simply:

1
Line up the aerator remover tool as shown
2
Unthread and remove carefully

If you use pliers, remember to cover the jaws in electrical tape to prevent damaging the finish. If the aerator is too damaged or old, you can replace the faucet using one of these lovely models.

How to Remove a Kohler Faucet Aerator

Here’s how to remove an aerator from Kohler faucets:

1
Line up an adjustable wrench with the flats on the sprayhead
2
Turn counterclockwise
3
Remove the face and aerator carefully

Is your faucet on the older side? Consider upgrading to a new model; we have plenty of reviews to help you decide.

How to Remove a Faucet Aerator that is Stuck

If you find that you cannot remove the aerator from your faucet, there are other ways to remove it, including:

Using pliers
Carefully tape up the jaws with electrical tape and turn counterclockwise. Adjust the position of the pliers if necessary.
Using a rubber wrench
Wrap the jaws around the outside of the aerator and tug counterclockwise. If that does not work, try pulling in another position from the other direction. Be careful not to damage the faucet itself.
Applying heat
Heat may help loosen the metal long enough to remove the aerator. Using a hairdryer or heat gun, apply a blast of gentle heat for a few moments before using the taped pliers or wrench to turn counterclockwise. Do not use heating elements on non-metal aerators; if you are not sure what material your aerator is, avoid using heat to be safe.
Using WD-40 lubricant
Open a window and ensure there is plenty of airflow before starting. Then spray the aerator for three to five seconds and leave it to sit for a few minutes. Wipe down the aerator with a cloth before using taped pliers or a rubber wrench again.
Call a plumber (last resort)
If none of these methods help, you may need to call a plumber. It could be that the parts are too corroded to move, or there may be a debris build-up. Either way, a professional can help you replace and fix a new aerator with ease. The worst-case scenario is that you need a whole new faucet, which a plumber can help install. Get a free quote filling out the below form for a plumber in your local area.

When to Replace Your Faucet Aerator

Excessive corrosion or mineral build-up
Corrosion damages these parts or the aerator as a whole, and they need replacing immediately. Mineral build-up happens everywhere and can be cleaned but may contribute to an aerator needing replacement. If you live in a hard-water area, you may need to clean or replace your aerator more frequently.
Low water flow
While cleaning can help deal with a small amount of low water flow, you may need to replace the aerator if you suffer from low flow regularly.
Uneven flow
An uneven flow may be an indicator of a blockage or corroded parts. Try cleaning your aerator and replace it if that does not solve the issue.
Over 12 months old
Typically, aerators are designed to last a year. If your aerator is older than 12 months, you may need to replace it.

Conclusion

Dealing with your faucet aerator does not need to be a hassle. Remove your aerator regularly for cleaning as above, and you can reap the benefits with every single use.

Caitlin Shaffer

Caitlin Shaffer has been traveling & working as a content writer & SCUBA dive instructor since 2014. Having lived in Central & South America, Southeast Asia, India, & Australia, Caitlin has had many years of experience with a variety of kitchen, bathroom, plumbing systems & common household products. Other than writing about her plumbing experiences & knowledge, her main passions are yoga, ocean conservation, & sustainable development.